Abakaliki FC have strengthened their technical bench with the appointment of new assistant coaches as the Rice Boys intensify preparations for the 2026/27 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, with promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) firmly in sight.
The new members of the backroom staff were officially unveiled at the club's camp in Abakaliki by Chairman of the club, Senator Obinna Ogba, who described the appointments as a strategic move to deepen the team's technical capacity ahead of the new campaign.
Ogba expressed confidence that the additions would inject fresh ideas, tactical discipline and greater competitiveness into the squad as the club seeks to secure a place among Nigeria's elite clubs.
The club's management said the restructuring of the technical crew aligns with the vision of Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, whose administration remains committed to seeing Abakaliki FC earn promotion to the NPFL.
Former Rangers International midfielder Jude Agara, one of the newly appointed assistant coaches, pledged to bring his experience to bear in supporting the head coach and building a disciplined, resilient and winning team capable of delivering promotion.
Another assistant coach, Anthony Idowu, also assured the management of his commitment to fostering a strong team culture and helping the club achieve its objectives.
In another key development, immediate past team captain Timothy Cyril has transitioned from the pitch to the dugout after retiring from active football. Now serving as a trainer, Cyril promised to channel his leadership qualities and intimate knowledge of the squad into preparing the players for the rigours of the NNL season.
Head Coach Anistar Starplus described the appointments as a major boost to the club's technical project, noting that the expanded coaching crew would enhance player development, tactical execution and overall team performance.
He expressed optimism that the squad possesses the quality and determination to challenge strongly for promotion, while calling on football enthusiasts and stakeholders across Ebonyi State to rally behind the club throughout the campaign.
Starplus also commended the management of Abakaliki FC and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ebonyi State Chapter, for their partnership in promoting the club, urging sustained media support to project the team's growing profile.
Fresh from an impressive run to the latter stages of the 2025 President Federation Cup, Abakaliki FC are expected to begin an intensive pre-season programme as they fine-tune preparations for what promises to be a fiercely contested NNL campaign.
